Catholic schools offer an education model that emphasizes the dignity of every individual, according to Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education. Bishop O'Connell expressed gratitude to Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri and Congressman Darin LaHood of Illinois for their role in introducing bipartisan resolutions celebrating National Catholic Schools Week.

Bishop O'Connell highlighted the commitment of Catholic educators to forming students in the Catholic faith. He stated, “I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to Catholic educators for their steadfast dedication to forming students in the Catholic faith. It is through their dedicated service to the educational ministry of the Church that Catholic schools continue to provide the nation with an education model rooted in the recognition of the inherent dignity of every person."

He further explained that these schools focus on more than just academic success, emphasizing spiritual, moral, and intellectual growth with a dual goal: "not only the flourishing of each individual but also their ultimate salvation." According to Bishop O'Connell, "Catholic schools nurture humility, wisdom, and virtue, guiding students to recognize and embrace what is true, good, and beautiful. This education empowers them to live lives of service to God and others, offering a freedom that only Christ can provide.”